Absenteeism Due to Stress and Mental Illness

By Sympa
06.10.2015Business & leadership,

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Nowadays mental health problems increasingly cause absenteeism. How did this trend start? And how can it be stopped? A crucial first step is gaining insight in the way we work; what are someones strengths and – more important – what are his weaknesses?

Absenteeism and mental health problems

Todays market sees a rise in absenteeism caused by mental health problems instead of physical problems. Nearly 50 percent of long-term disability is related to stress and other mental illnesses. Among young people an alarming 80 percent of absenteeism is linked to mental issues. These are distressing statistics. How did this trend start?

Maintaining flexibility

People are complex creatures and mental symptoms vary per person. This makes it impossible to find one specific reason for the alarming numbers we mentioned before. Lack of guidance is often reported as the main reason for mental health problems. People feel they are not in control over their own lives anymore. A difficult situation, since the current market demands having a flexible attitude and taking initiative. In order to remain successful in a changing work environment we need to change our old habits and acquire new skills.

Personal manual

All this is easier said than done. Do we even know why we do what we do? Everyone owns a personal manual, but have we actually read it? Which circumstances make us perform at our best and which situations should be avoided? In cases like these an HR-system can give valuable insight. The systems up-to-date data helps to actively guide employees. Which knowledge and skills can be used right away and which aspects need further training and coaching? Insight in our personal manual could prevent absenteeism.

Actively guiding your employees and making the most of their talents? Do not hesitate to get in touch with Martta Riihimäki and learn more about Sympas versatile and flexible HR system.